If I'm not mistaken, the record for an Atlantic crossing is 12 ft., but keep in mind, that is on the VERY FAR EDGE of exteme. No, a sunfish isn't made for open water sailing, but neither are sailBOARDs which are used in surf sailing all the time. Coastal sailing (which is what these boys set out to do, I'd bet) is done in small boats quite often. The size of the craft wasn't the problem, their poor knowledge/judgement/decision making was the problem, I just hope SOMEBODY learns something from their experience.

Troy